Kaberamaido Ferry Dock Nears Completion as Leaders Rally Patience Among Traders

By Skika Reporter.

Excitement is building in Kaberamaido District as authorities announce that the long-awaited docking site for BKK Ferries will be ready within the next two weeks, unlocking fresh trade opportunities across Lake Kyoga.

The update comes shortly after the official launch of BKK Ferries at the Bukungu landing site in Buyende District.

The commissioning was presided over by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve water transport infrastructure.

According to Kaberamaido District Chairperson Victor Rex Ekesu, local leaders recently met with the Soroti Regional Engineer, who confirmed that construction works are progressing steadily and are expected to conclude by March 8, 2026.

Once finalized, the district will formally notify the Office of the Resident District Commissioner and the Kaberamaido District Local Government.

Ekesu called on residents—particularly traders eager to tap into cross-lake commerce with the Busoga sub-region—to exercise patience as final touches are completed.

For local entrepreneurs, the ferry service represents more than infrastructure—it signals economic relief. Businessman Eretu Davis says the new route will cut transport costs and travel time, enabling him to travel directly to Jinja to purchase mattresses and other goods from manufacturers.

He described the service as a game-changer but appealed for expedited completion, noting the current peak trading season.

Similarly, trader Akello Martha expressed optimism about sourcing clothes from Jinja for resale in Kaberamaido.

She highlighted that the ferry offers a shorter and more affordable alternative compared to transporting merchandise through Amolatar, a route she described as costly and time-consuming.

She urged authorities to ensure the docking site is delivered on schedule to support small-scale businesses.

The docking site project had previously stalled after it was awarded to Tarrein Service Limited, which reportedly abandoned the works over unpaid government arrears amounting to UGX 2.7 billion.

Despite earlier setbacks, district leaders remain confident that the project will now be completed as promised—ushering in improved connectivity, reduced transport costs, and renewed economic momentum for communities around Lake Kyoga.